skip to main content

RA ocular disease — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRheumatoid arthritisRA ocular diseaseSCE Rheumatology

A patient with rheumatoid arthritis develops severe boring eye pain, photophobia and a violaceous tender sclera with reduced vision. What is the immediate management priority?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: BArrange urgent ophthalmology assessment for vision-threatening scleritis

The best answer is “Arrange urgent ophthalmology assessment for vision-threatening scleritis”. Severe deep pain, violaceous scleral inflammation and reduced vision suggest scleritis, which can progress to necrosis and ocular complications and may reflect active systemic disease. Conjunctivitis and episcleritis do not fit the painful sight-threatening pattern, while refraction, lubricants or routine review would delay definitive assessment.

Reference: NHS scleritis clinical information: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/red-eye/